Police warn of ‘porch pirates’ as holiday shopping ramps up

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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — With online orders and front-door deliveries ramping up for the holidays, package thefts are hitting all-time highs.

The home safety research group SafeWise estimates 104 million packages are stolen a year across the U.S., accounting for a roughly $58 billion loss.

A police department in Florida considers the problem to be so widespread, it released a video to social media sharing tips.

“With holiday shopping ramping up, we want to help you keep your deliveries safe. Remember to turn on your delivery notifications so you can pick them up as soon as they hit your doorstep,” said Tampa Police Department’s Patrick Messmer.

In the video, Messmer suggested having your packages delivered to a secure locker if you can’t be home to accept delivery.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister put out his own warning about online retail fraud.

“Don’t click on unknown links, or share card details on unsecured websites. Protect both your personal and financial information,” said Chronister.

Crime

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